THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE
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Photograph by Willis T. Lee
WIIERE THE WALKING STICKS COME FROM
This cactus (Opuntia imbricata) is a characteristic plant in southern New Mexico. It is com
monly called cane cactus because of its use in making walking sticks.
Photograph by F. E. Lloyd
A NATURAL BIRD SANCTUARY IN A FRIENDLESS LAND
The spiny branches of the cane cactus afford safe shelter to birds and are used extensively
by them for nesting. Predatory animals in search of eggs or young birds usually go hungry
rather than brave the needle-like cactus spines.